Sage Classic R8 Fly Rod

Sage has brought back the feel of classic medium-action rods while integrating modern performance with the new R8 Classic.

Sage’s new Classic R8 revives the smooth, medium-action feel of vintage SP, SLT and ZXL rods—but with the snap and precision of Revolution 8 graphite. It loads deeply to protect light tippets, yet recovers swiftly, giving you crisp, connected casts whether you’re placing delicate dries, mending nymph rigs or rolling out effortless roll casts.

What really stands out is its balance of power and touch: enough backbone to punch through wind or carry long leaders, yet sensitive enough to feel every nuance at the tip. The deep-loading action rewards a smooth stroke and makes each cast intuitive and fun.

Aesthetically it’s a nod to classic Sage—rich brown blank, chestnut thread wraps, figured walnut reel seat and premium cork—while the underlying materials deliver modern performance. Designed for anglers who fish with intention, the Classic R8 turns fewer casts into more meaningful moments, sharpening awareness and letting you savor every hatch, run and that one perfect fish.

** If the rod you are after is currently out of stock or there is another model you have in mind but is not listed feel free to contact us by calling our Tumut store on (02) 6947 4062 or by email.

Inspired By Angling Intention

A fly rod is made great by its ability to match the angler’s intentions and enhance their feel of the experience. For those choosing to slow down their approach to the water, acute environmental observations become more and more apparent. Not only does this enhance the overall experience through a deeper connection to the venue, but often leads to greater success. The new Classic R8 rods inspire this measured pace while fishing, a heightened sense of feeling increases awareness of situation and equipment. Then, when the opportunity arises, the angler is prepared and the rod performs, translating angling intention and delivering the right cast at the right time.

Enhanced Hand-to-Rod Connection

The Classic R8 family’s deep-loading, smooth, and Moderate action brings the physical feel of the cast directly to the angler, allowing for ultimate precision, control, and accuracy. When the fish is hooked, the rod’s deep bend protects light tippets and lets the angler feel every move of the fish. Anglers looking for the ultimate in hand-to-fly-to-fish feel will find it with the Classic R8.

Pace

Fishing with intention requires patience, deliberate presentations, and a consistent, relaxed pace. With the Classic R8, anglers control and adjust line speeds to match their pace and the fishing scenario, ensuring that each cast is delivered where, how, and when it needs to be successful.

Performance

Despite consistent angling intentions - downstream presentations to rising trout, as example - conditions constantly change. When needed, Classic R8 rods maintain enough reserve power and energy-transfer required to make the longer cast or turnover a lengthy leader in the wind. At the same time, the rods are light and forgiving so they can be fished all day with minimal fatigue. The Classic R8 combines a deep loading action with all-day performance.

Features

• Revolution 8 graphite construction for a deep-loading moderate action with rapid recovery
• Rich Sage-brown blank accented by chestnut base wraps and subtle beige trim
• Super-slick chrome snake guides, SiC stripper guide and chrome tip-top for flawless line control
• Custom anodised aluminium up-locking reel seat with extra-figured walnut insert for classic elegance
• Super-plus grade snub-nose half-wells cork handle engineered for all-day comfort and feel
• Durable black rod bag with integrated quick-tie cord lock to keep sections neatly secured
• Matching aluminium rod tube embossed with the Sage medallion for premium protection and presentation

The Sage R8 family of high-performance fly rods are equally versatile as well as powerful. When the pressure's on to make that perfect cast to a trophy fish, put the new Sage R8 in your hands!

Classic R8 380-4

The 8-foot, 3-weight Classic R8 is at home on bluelines, creeks, and small rivers teeming with modestly sized fish eager for dries. It loads easily, casts quickly, and offers plenty of finesse when delicacy is required.

Classic R8 386-4

Surprisingly versatile, the 8’6” 3-weight Classic R8 delivers ultimate delicacy and precision to the pickiest trout. It effortlessly presents tiny or medium flies across smaller waters yet holds firm when a fish fights back.

Classic R8 486-4

An ideal walk-and-wade dry-fly tool, the 8’6” 4-weight Classic R8 shines at short to medium distances. Its pinpoint accuracy and feedback let you present with confidence and battle trout of nearly any size.

Classic R8 490-4

The 9-foot, 4-weight Classic R8 handles medium dries and soft hackles with grace. It delivers precise casts at close range and carries longer lines when needed, all in a light, delicate package perfect for picky fish on rivers or stillwaters.

Classic R8 586-4

While an 8’6” rod may not win distance contests, the 5-weight Classic R8 more than compensates with exceptional accuracy and fishability at close range—even in wind. Tailored for anglers stalking wary trout with larger flies and demanding fish-fighting capability.

Classic R8 590-4

The 9-foot, 5-weight Classic R8 is the family’s most versatile rod, delicately and accurately presenting dries and soft hackles of any size across waters large and small. It packs enough power to handle big trout and cut into wind, yet retains the sensitivity to play fish on fine tippets.

Classic R8 690-4

The 9-foot, 6-weight Classic R8 excels on wide rivers, long casts, and windy days with bulky dry flies. It preserves the family’s deliberate pace and action while adding the power to lift and carry heavy lines—ensuring fly turnover and minimizing casting fatigue.